I first found out about OEC in 2010, when I was concerned about bisphenol-A in children's products and food, and found out that Oregon was considering a ban on BPA. I connected with OEC when I wanted to testify as a citizen at the Legislature in Salem in February 2010, as well as writing letters to the editor and calling representatives. After that bill failed, I testified again in 2011, again with helpful support and resources from OEC. After that statewide bill failed narrowly, a similar one was considered in Multnomah County. I was able to testify as a citizen and this ban passed unanimously and has now gone into effect as law. OEC has shared resources and studies that illustrate the concerns of chemicals in consumer products, let citizens know when crucial hearings or votes take place, and worked tirelessly to make our community and environment safer. I'm so grateful for their studies and focus on dangerous chemicals. Not all of us are scientists or legislators but everyone deserves safe products and to participate in our political system. Thank you to OEC for everything they do.